THE SHAWWAL MOON signifies the end of Ramadan for Muslims around the world. Has the Shawwal moon been sighted in Saudi Arabia?

Muslims have been praised by senior figures such as Professor Chris Whitty for adhering to lockdown rules during Ramadan, one of the holiest months in the Islamic calendar. During the month Muslims take part in dawn to dusk fasting, consuming no food or water.

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Muslims do this to become closer to Allah, and fasting is seen as a way purifying yourself spiritually and physically.

This year's Ramadan has been a bit different from usual, as the coronavirus outbreak has meant staying at home as much as possible, and not being allowed into the houses of your friends and loved ones.

It has also seen places of worship across the country closing down to help prevent the spread of COVID-19.

Eid Al Fitr: The festival is a time for family and friends (Image: GETTY)

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What is the Shawwal moon?

The sighting by astronomers of the “Shawwal Moon” heralds the start of Eid al-Fitr, also called the “Festival of Breaking the Fast.”

Eid al-Fitr is a massive holiday celebrated by Muslims across the world, and involves all kinds of events, gifts, receptions—and the performance of communal prayer at daybreak on its first day — so its timing would be helpful to know in advance.

Shawwal Moon: Muslims have been praised for staying home during lockdown (Image: GETTY)

Has the Shawwal moon been sighted?

In Saudi Arabia, the UAE moon sighting committee will meet remotely on the evening of May 22, in an attempt to see the new crescent moon.

The Saudi Supreme Court will also issue an announcement on Friday regarding the sighting of the moon.

The Shawwal moon has not yet been sighted, but this page will be updated when it has.